Health budget cuts in Tasmania have adversely affected patient outcomes and contributed to significant workforce retention and morale issues, a damning parliamentary committee report has found.

The inquiry's interim findings said the state's ability to attract and retain a quality workforce was at risk in both the public and private health systems. Elective surgery volumes have dramatically decreased and ward closures have increased the incidence of bed blockages within the major hospitals. The Legislative Council sub-committee report said the government's budget cuts were unsustainable and there was an alarming lack of documentation and strategic direction from the government. "The government does not currently have a sustainable funding model in place for the provision of public...